Frank Grillo Confirmed to Play Crossbones in CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER

Just over a week ago, we learned that Frank Grillo (The Grey, Warrior) had tested for a villain role in Marvel’s sequel Captain America: The Winter Soldier. I was pretty onboard with the idea of Grillo tackling the brawny marksman role of Crossbones, but we had also heard a few more recognizable names mentioned for the part so it was unclear if Grillo would walk away the victor. However, it appears that he made quite the impression with the Marvel folks, as confirmation has now come down that Grillo is set to portray the baddie Crossbones in the Captain America sequel. Hit the jump for more.

The news of Grillo’s confirmation comes via Variety, who reports that the actor has closed a deal for the role. The character of Crossbones began as the leader of the Savage Crims gang in the comics, before later joining a school for criminals and becoming a henchman for Red Skull. The antagonist is a proficient marksman who is well versed in hand-to-hand combat, and I can’t wait to see what Grillo does with the character.

The female lead has yet to be set, but we should hear some word on that soon as we’ve recently reported on a number of actresses that have been vying for the role. Chris Evans returns in the Captain America sequel alongside Anthony Mackie as The Falcon and Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes/the titular assassin Winter Soldier. Also appearing in the film will be S.H.I.E.L.D. members Samuel L. Jackson, Cobie Smulders, and Scarlett Johansson, with television directors Anthony and Joe Russo taking the helm when production begins in March. Captain America: The Winter Soldier opens in 3D on April 4th, 2014.